Diabetes Management Plan: Complete Blood Sugar Control & Lifestyle Guide Cheat Sheet

What is Diabetes Management?

Diabetes management is a comprehensive approach to controlling blood glucose levels and preventing complications in people with Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes. Effective management combines medication, lifestyle modifications, monitoring, and regular healthcare to maintain optimal health and quality of life.

Why It Matters: Proper diabetes management prevents serious complications including heart disease, kidney damage, nerve damage, vision problems, and wound healing issues.

Core Management Principles

The Four Pillars of Diabetes Care

1. Blood Glucose Monitoring – Regular tracking and pattern recognition
2. Medication Management – Proper timing, dosing, and adherence
3. Lifestyle Optimization – Diet, exercise, stress management, sleep
4. Healthcare Partnership – Regular check-ups and professional guidance

Target Ranges (Consult your healthcare provider for personalized targets)

Step-by-Step Daily Management Process

Morning Routine

1. Check fasting blood sugar upon waking
2. Take morning medications as prescribed
3. Plan balanced breakfast with carb counting
4. Review daily schedule for meal and activity timing

Throughout the Day

1. Monitor blood sugar before meals and as directed
2. Count carbohydrates for each meal/snack
3. Take medications at prescribed times
4. Stay hydrated (water is best)
5. Engage in planned physical activity

Evening Routine

1. Check blood sugar before dinner
2. Plan tomorrow’s meals and activities
3. Take evening medications if prescribed
4. Record daily log of readings and observations

Blood Glucose Monitoring Techniques

When to Check

• Type 1 Diabetes: 4+ times daily (before meals, bedtime, as needed)
• Type 2 (insulin): 2-4 times daily as directed
• Type 2 (non-insulin): As recommended by healthcare provider

Proper Testing Technique

1. Wash hands with soap and warm water
2. Use side of fingertip (rotate fingers)
3. Let first drop fall, use second drop
4. Apply adequate blood sample to test strip
5. Record result immediately

Technology Options

Medication Management by Type

Type 1 Diabetes

• Insulin Types: Rapid, short, intermediate, long-acting
• Delivery Methods: Injections, insulin pens, insulin pumps
• Timing: Multiple daily injections or continuous pump therapy

Type 2 Diabetes Medications

Medication Best Practices

• Take medications at same time daily
• Never skip doses without consulting healthcare provider
• Store insulin properly (refrigerate unopened, room temp when in use)
• Rotate injection sites to prevent lipodystrophy
• Always carry fast-acting carbs when taking insulin

Nutrition Management

Carbohydrate Counting

Basic Formula: 15g carbs = 1 carb serving

Plate Method

• 1/2 plate: Non-starchy vegetables (greens, broccoli, peppers)
• 1/4 plate: Lean protein (chicken, fish, tofu)
• 1/4 plate: Starchy foods (rice, pasta, potatoes)
• Side: Healthy fats (nuts, avocado, olive oil)

Meal Timing Strategies

• Regular Schedule: Eat meals at consistent times
• Spacing: 4-6 hours between main meals
• Snacks: Planned snacks if needed (especially with insulin)
• Late Eating: Avoid large meals close to bedtime

Exercise and Physical Activity

Benefits for Diabetes

• Improves insulin sensitivity
• Lowers blood glucose
• Supports weight management
• Reduces cardiovascular risk

Exercise Types and Recommendations

Exercise Safety Tips

• Check blood sugar before, during, and after exercise
• Carry fast-acting carbs during activity
• Stay hydrated
• Wear proper footwear and check feet daily
• Start slowly and progress gradually

Common Challenges and Solutions

Blood Sugar Fluctuations

Lifestyle Challenges

• Eating Out: Review menus online, ask about preparation methods
• Travel: Pack extra supplies, carry medications in carry-on
• Work Schedule: Plan meals/snacks, communicate with supervisors
• Social Events: Eat before attending, bring diabetes-friendly options

Emergency Management

Hypoglycemia (Low Blood Sugar <70 mg/dL)

Rule of 15:

1. Consume 15g fast-acting carbs
2. Wait 15 minutes
3. Recheck blood sugar
4. Repeat if still low
5. Eat regular meal/snack once stabilized

Fast-Acting Carbs (15g):

• 4 glucose tablets
• 1/2 cup fruit juice
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 5-6 hard candies

Hyperglycemia (High Blood Sugar >250 mg/dL)

• Check for ketones (Type 1 or insulin-dependent Type 2)
• Drink water
• Take rapid-acting insulin if prescribed
• Contact healthcare provider if persistent
• Seek immediate care if ketones present

Best Practices and Practical Tips

Daily Habits

• Keep a diabetes log (blood sugar, food, activity, medication)
• Set phone reminders for medication times
• Prepare healthy snacks in advance
• Keep emergency supplies in multiple locations
• Wear medical ID bracelet or carry medical information

Technology Integration

• Use diabetes management apps for tracking
• Set up medication reminders
• Share data with healthcare team electronically
• Consider smart insulin pens or CGM systems

Stress Management

• Practice relaxation techniques (deep breathing, meditation)
• Maintain regular sleep schedule (7-9 hours)
• Stay connected with support network
• Manage work-life balance

Foot Care (Critical for Diabetes)

• Inspect feet daily for cuts, sores, or changes
• Wash feet daily with lukewarm water
• Moisturize but avoid between toes
• Trim nails straight across
• Wear proper-fitting shoes and socks
• See podiatrist regularly

Healthcare Team and Monitoring Schedule

Essential Team Members

• Primary Care Physician/Endocrinologist: Overall management
• Certified Diabetes Educator: Education and support
• Registered Dietitian: Nutrition counseling
• Pharmacist: Medication management
• Eye Doctor: Annual dilated eye exams
• Podiatrist: Foot care specialist

Regular Check-up Schedule

Resources for Further Learning

Professional Organizations

• American Diabetes Association (ADA): diabetes.org
• Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF): jdrf.org
• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: eatright.org
• American Association of Diabetes Educators: diabeteseducator.org

Educational Resources

• CDC Diabetes Prevention Program: cdc.gov/diabetes
• NIH National Institute of Diabetes: niddk.nih.gov
• Diabetes Self-Management Magazine: diabetesselfmanagement.com

Mobile Apps

• MySugr: Blood sugar tracking and carb counting
• Glucose Buddy: Comprehensive diabetes management
• Fooducate: Nutrition and food tracking
• Diabetes:M: All-in-one diabetes management

Support Communities

• Diabetes Daily Forum: diabetesdaily.com
• TuDiabetes Community: tudiabetes.org
• Local diabetes support groups (check with healthcare provider)

Quick Reference Emergency Numbers

• Healthcare Provider: ________________
• Pharmacy: ________________
• Emergency Contact: ________________
• Poison Control: 1-800-222-1222

Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your diabetes management plan. This cheatsheet is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.